Synology DS220+ Beginner Starter: How to Quickly Complete the First Configuration?
just got your hands on the Synology DS220+ and ready to build your own private cloud storage? Don't panic, this article will take you step by step to complete the first configuration from zero to one, and novices can easily get started.
preparation
Before you start, make sure you're ready :
- Synology DS220+ Host
- two hard drives (same recommended capacity)
- a network cable
- a computer or mobile phone
Step 1: Physical Installation
Installing the hard drive
Synology DS220. supports 2 x 3.5-inch or 2.5-inch hard drives.
- unplug the power cord of the DS220+
- press the release button under the front panel to pull the drive bay away
- place the hard drive in the bay and secure it with screws on both sides
- push the bay back to the chassis and lock it when you hear a click
- repeat the above steps to install the second hard drive
connect devices
- connect the DS220+ to a router or switch using a network cable
- plug in the power adapter and press the power button
- observe the front panel indicator and hear a "drip" sound to indicate successful start
Step 2: Install the DSM system
DSM (DiskStation Manager) is Synology's operating system that is powerful and easy to use.
Method 1: Install via browser (recommended)
- ensure that your PC and DS220+ are connected to the same network
- open your browser and go to
https://www.synology.com/en/support/download/DS220+ - download the Synology Assistant tool (available for Windows and Mac)
- Install and run Synology Assistant
- tool automatically discovers DS220+ within the LAN
- select the DS220+ and click "Online"
- choose to install the DSM operating system
- wait for the installation to complete (usually 10-20 minutes)
Method 2: Install the
through the mobile app- download DS find or DSM find Appfrom the app store
- make sure your phone is connected to the same Wi-Fi
- open the app to automatically discover the DS220+
- tap on your device and follow the prompts to complete the DSM installation
precautions
- do not disconnect the network or power during installation
- first installation, it is recommended to select "Full Install" (all kits included)
- will automatically restart after the installation is completed, please be patient
Step 3: Basic configuration
create an admin account
- browser to
http://diskstation:5000(or enter your device's IP address) - see the welcome screen and click "Start"
- create an administrator account (username is recommended to be in English, password should be complex enough)
- remember this account and use it for subsequent management
configure network
- DSM automatically detects network configurations
- if you need to pin an IP, you can set it up in Control Panel → Network → Network Interface
- recommend that beginners use automatic IP acquisition first, and then configure it manually after familiarizing themselves
Configure Storage
- DSM prompts you to create a storage pool
- select Custom (recommended) or Quick
- Select RAID Type:
- SHR (Synology Hybrid Array) : Automatic optimization, recommended for beginners
- RAID 1: Mirror mode, high data security, halved capacity
-
- named storage spaces (such as "Main Storage"
- create shared folders (e.g., Documents, Photos
Step 4: Turn on common functions
File Station (Document Management)
DSM file manager, similar to Windows Explorer.
Function:
- upload, download, and manage files
- set file permissions
- file search and preview
Suggestions:
- create different shared folders (e.g., Work, Personal, Media)
- set different permissions for different folders
Photo Station (photo management)
your private photo gallery with AI recognition for faces and scenes.
opening steps:
- open the Kit Center
- search and install Photo Station
- need to create an admin account for the first time
- upload your photos to start organizing
Function:
- automatically identify people, places, scenes
- create albums and smart albums
- share the album with family and friends
Video Station (Video Management)
private video library with support for mainstream formats.
Opening Steps:
- open the Kit Center
- search for and install Video Station
- first time using it, you need to set up a media library
- upload your video to start watching
Function:
- video meta information recognition (resolution, encoding, etc.)
- create video categorization and playlists
- supports DLNA casting to TV
advanced recommendations
complete the basic configuration, your Synology DS220+ is ready to use. If you want to explore its potential further, consider:
install more kits
Synology Suite Center has hundreds of free and paid kits:
- Cloud Sync: Synchronize Baidu Netdisk, OneDrive, Google Drive
- Note Station: Private Notes App
- Download Station: Download tool, support BT, magnet link
- Plex Media Server: Home Media Center
enable QuickConnect
access your Synology when you're not at home:
- open Control Panel → QuickConnect
- sign up for a Synology account (free)
- enable QuickConnect
- get the addressanytime, anywhere
xxxxx.quickconnect.toto access
Backup regularly
data is priceless, remember to back up regularly:
- use the Hyper Backup kit
- supports on-premises, off-site, and cloud backups
- set up an automatic backup schedule
FAQs
Q: What should I do if I forget my admin password?
A: Reset DSM system (note that data will be cleared):
- turn off DS220+ and press and hold the Reset button for 4 seconds
- press and hold the Reset button again for 4 seconds and hear a "drip" sound
- wait for the system to reboot and reconfigure the
Q: How do I check the IP address of my DS220+?
A: Use Synology Assistant tools or the router management interface to view the device list.
Q: What should I do if the two hard drives have different capacities?
A: DSM supports SHR mode, which automatically utilizes the maximum available space on both drives.
Q: Do you support external hard drives?
A: Yes, you can connect an external hard drive to expand or back up through the USB interface.
summary
Synology DS220+ is a powerful NAS device that only takes 4 steps to complete the first configuration:
- Physical installation : Install the hard drive and connect the device
- Install the system: Install the DSMvia Synology Assistant or the mobile app
- basic configuration : Create an account, configure the network, and set the storage space
- Common functions: Open File Station, Photo Station, and other packages
newbies are recommended to familiarize themselves with the basic functions first, and then gradually explore advanced gameplay. Synology's community is very active, and you can search or ask questions on the official forum if you encounter any problems.
wish you a smooth NAS journey! 🚀
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